Michael trudged downstairs rubbing his tired eyes. It had been two days since his date with Nikita and he had only talked to her on the phone. Adam had a bad cold and he didn’t want anyone else to get sick.

He yawned as he sat at the kitchen table and smiled at Mick who was drinking a glass of milk. He sighed and stretched languidly in the chair.

“You look beat amigo.” Mick commented happily.

“I am. Adam is a typical four year old when he gets sick. His grandparents called to wish him a merry Christmas. Then I had to listen to Vashdi go off on family remedies.” Michael replied warily.

“You still talk to his grandparents?” Mick asked.

“Yup. They were like my second family when Charles used my mother as a punching bag and I was oblivious to the whole thing.” Michael said sarcastically.

“Come on Michael. You had other things going on. At least you did something when you did find out. Have you spoken to Nikki today?” Mick asked changing the subject knowing it was a sensitive one with his friend.

“Yeah. I told her I’d go over tomorrow if Adam is better. If he isn’t she is coming over here. Why?” Michael asked.

“I just wanted to ask her some advice on women.” Mick replied his cheeks flushing.

“Women huh? What about ’em?” Michael asked smiling closing his eyes.

“Nothing. I’d feel better talking with Nikki about it. No offense Michael.” Mick replied tentatively.

“No worries. Hey what do you think of your new room?” Michael asked.

“I love it. Thanks Michael. I already thanked your mom.” Mick looked at his friend. Michael just sat there smiling with his eyes closed as talked.

“Michael, I can’t begin to convey my thanks to you and your family. You all have done so much for me and Lizzie. I just want to tell you how grateful we are. I know we aren’t easy to live with-” Mick stopped as Michael cut him off.

“Hey. You guys aren’t a burden. We love having you around. You bring laughter here. Me and my mom, not to mention Monique and Adam, need that right now.” Michael said opening his eyes and grasping Mick’s arm.

“Thanks Michael.” Mick said as he got up.

“Good night Mick.” He said as his friend waved at him.

Michael sat there and relaxed a little. His thought began to drift as he thought of Nikita. He missed her. She had sounded distracted on the phone and had cut their conversation short. He sighed as he stood and quietly made his way outside.

****

Nikita sighed in her sleep. She rolled over and tears started streaming down her face as her eyes opened. She cursed her dreams. She had been having a good day and then now all her childhood baggage came up. She sniffled and heard something tapping on her window. She sat up and glared at an image waving at her.

She looked and saw Michael’s smiling face. She jumped up from her bed and opened her window to let him in. She glanced at her clock and sighed with relief. Her father was out on some domestic violence thing and wouldn’t be home for an hour.

She burrowed into Michael’s chest as he hugged her. She smelled his shirt and smiled as she looked up at him kissing him breathless.

“Hi.” He whispered when he caught his breath.

“Hi.” She smiled.

“I thought I’d surprise you. You seemed preoccupied when we talked and thought I could remedy the situation.” He said smiling warmly.

“You have no idea how much I needed that kiss.” She whispered.

Michael bent his head and kissed her again. He nibbled her lip softly before sliding his tongue into her warm mouth. He sighed as she melted against him. He hugged her closer to him and deepened the kiss. His mouth pressing against hers demanding and giving at the same time.

Nikita hugged him as his lips took away all her nightmares. She moved her jelly legs towards her bed guiding Michael with her. They fell in a heap with Michael on top. His mouth left hers so they could catch their breath. He looked in her eyes and smiled.

He lay beside her and caressed her face softly while gazing in her eyes. his fingertips caressed her lips and his mouth followed. His hand moved lower and hesitantly touched her breast. He broke their kiss and looked in her eyes. Finding his answer his hand moved and covered her breast firmly. He smiled his playful half smile before he kissed her again.

Nikita sighed as his hand and kisses created this pleasant sensation through her body. She moaned softly her tongue pushing into Michael’s mouth. She grabbed his head in her hands and held him close against her demanding mouth. She guided one of her hands to his back and scratched lightly. She giggled against his mouth as he moaned.

She felt his hand drift to her belly as they kissed. She felt his fingers caress her belly button through her pajama’s. She arched herself against his strong hand as it caressed her. Her breath caught as Michael looked at her his eyes begging. She smiled and kissed his nose. He looked at her as his hand drifted lower slowly.

His eyes held hers as he touched her softly. His hand lighting a fire in her that she didn’t know existed. She moaned as his gentle ministrations made her flush. She looked at him as he moved his hand slowly, teasing her. She saw the dark green glint in his eyes. He kissed her as his hand caressed her core with more intensity making Nikita arch against his hand. He slid his tongue in her mouth and rubbed her to the pattern his tongue was making in her mouth.

“Mmmm.” Nikita moaned softly as she moved against his hand. Her breath quickened as his hand moved a little faster. She felt light headed. She closed her eyes as Michael’s hand rubbed. It was hard for her to breath as Michael looked at her.

“Let go, Kita.” He whispered.

Those three words sent her into blissful oblivion. She felt a burning fire explode in her groin as she thrust herself into Michael’s hand. Her nails clawing into his arm as she groaned. She sighed as she came down. She glanced at Michael as he smiled at her.

“Are you okay?” He asked brushing her brow with his finger tips.

“I’m just fine.” She whispered turning her body into him. She opened her eyes as she felt his arousal on her stomach. She looked at him.

“Don’t worry about me. We aren’t ready for that yet.” He whispered kissing her forehead. “ I just wanted to take away some of your pain.”

“You did. Thank you.” She said kissing his neck. “Will you stay ‘til I fall asleep?”

“Of course I will.” He said holding her close.

“Thanks Michael.” She said sleepily.

“Shhh. It’s fine. Goodnight Kita.” He whispered. He looked down and chuckled as she was fast asleep.

************

Nikita stretched as the sunlight shone across her room from her opened window. Her cheeks flushed bright red as she smiled remembering last night. Michael had made her feel beautiful.

Her smile faded slightly as she remembered when her mother’s boyfriend’s touched her down there. It made her feel dirty and she never came close to what she felt last night.

Her smile brightened as she remembered the way Michael had looked at her. His eyes had been so dark that it was hard to tell what color they had been. She opened her eyes and sighed happily. He had held her until she fell asleep and she vaguely remembered his gentle kiss before he slipped out her window. Her thoughts were interrupted by her father knocking on her door.

“Hey Sweetie. Good morning.” He said hugging her as he sat at the edge of her bed.

“G’morning Pop. How was the midnight call?” She asked settling in her father’s strong embrace.

“ Okay. I just got in.” He replied sleepily.

“I thought you were gonna be home late, not gone the whole night.” Nikita replied looking at him and gently touching the faint circles under his eyes.

“I’m Ok Nikki. I just need some sleep. I came to see how you were before I turned in. You haven’t been acting like yourself lately.” he stated softly.

“I’m fine. Just trying to take it one day at a time.” She murmured softly.

“Okay. If you need to talk I’m here. I’m going to hit the sack, see you in a few hours. leave a note if you go anywhere. I love you.” Paul said kissing her forehead.

“Okay. I love you too, Dad.” She said hugging him happily.

****

“Daddy. Daddy.” Adam whispered in his father’s ear.

He sighed and stared at his father willing him to wake up. He wanted to spend time with his dad and he was still sleeping. He smiled as his father shifted in his sleep but frowned when he didn’t wake up. Adam sighed again as he tried to think of a way to wake up his dad.

When he had worked out the details of his latest trick he felt bad at waking up his dad. His father was usually always up before him and Monique. If he was still sleeping it meant he was real tired. He smiled and thought about all the fun things he and his dad could do and made up his mind. His daddy could always take a nap.

He moved toward the bedroom door and prepared to run. As he was about to sprint forward he felt strong hands lift him up and his legs made a comical running motion in the air. He looked at his captor and scowled .

“Whoa there Peter Rabbit. What are you doing?” Mick asked smiling at his best friends son.

“I’m trying to wake up my Daddy.” Adam said matter -of-factly.

“Well, Adam, he is kinda sleepy. Why don’t you let him sleep.” Adam sighed and shook his head slowly. He missed his dad and wanted to spend time with him. He smiled as another idea came to him.

“Mick put me down. I promise I won’t wake him up.” Adam said.

“Okay. I gotta go answer the door. Behave huh?” Mick said ruffling his hair.

“I will.” Adam said as he watched Mick leave. He then made his way slowly towards his dad. he looked so peaceful. Ever since they had moved here from home Adam saw his dad smile more. He liked that. He looked at the smile on his dad’s face and wondered what he was dreaming to make him happy.

“Nikita.” Michael whispered softly.

Adam swallowed and slowly made his way to cuddle against his dad. He curled into his fathers form . He sighed as his father’s strong arms hug him. He always felt safe in his daddy’s arms.

“Adam.” Michael said in his sleep, unconsciously holding his son against him.

Adam smiled and closed his eyes. He was one lucky little boy.

****

Mick smiled as he opened the door. Nikita smiled back as her friend hugged her. She walked in and looked around.

“Popsicle how are you. Michael told me about your Mum.” Mick said softly.

“It’s hard but after last night anything is possible.” Nikita replied.

“Last night?” Mick looked thoughtful. “Oh you mean when my best bud didn’t come home ‘til about one thirty in the morning.”

“Mick shut up. Where is he anyway?” She asked.

“Upstairs sleeping. He must have been warn out form the exertion.” Mick stated.

“Mick it wasn’t like that. I’m gonna go see him.” Nikita said softly.

He watched as she began to go upstairs. Mick smiled at his friend and saw how happy she was and was glad she had finally found safety with someone. “Hey Nikki. You look good today. I’m happy that you are happy.” Mick said softly.

“Thanks Mick. I’m gonna go see him now.” She said waving as she made her way upstairs.

************

Nikita walked upstairs quietly. When she arrived at Michael's bedroom door she peeked her head inside and smiled at the sight before her. Father and son lay together sleeping peacefully. She took one last look and turned to make her way back downstairs when she heard giggling.

Curious she made her way to the sounds and ended up in front of Monique and Lizzie's room. She knocked on the door and smiled at the two girls.

"What are you two doing?" She asked coming in at Monique's inviting smile.

"I was just showing Lizzie pictures of when we lived in Paris." Monique replied making room for Nikita to sit on her bed.

"Oh. Can I see?" She asked sitting down.

"Sure. Lizzie wanted to see all the ones with Michel. I've been trying to find then. Ah here they are." Monique exclaimed triumphantly.

"Monique, you promised not to tell." Lizzie said blushing.

"Oh it's okay. It's only Nikita who knows. She know how to keep secrets." Monique replied.

"What's the secret?" Nikita asked amused at Lizzie's blushing cheeks.

Monique leaned over and whispered in her ear softly. Nikita smiled and looked at Lizzie. She took the girl's hand and chuckled.

"I understand. He is cute isn't he." Nikita stated.

"Oh yes and he's strong and speaks French." Lizzie said dreamily.

"Yup, that does it every time." Nikita said laughing. "You want me to talk to him for you? I happen to be in good graces with our Michel."

"You're making fun of me." Lizzie said softly.

"I am but I can tell him something and maybe he will dance with you on Christmas Eve." Nikita whispered as Monique giggled.

"But he is your boyfriend." Lizzie said pointedly.

"True but he can always dance with me after he dances with you. So do you want to or not?" Nikita said thoughtfully.

"Do I look dumb? Of course I want to. Be careful though I might kiss him and he will love me forever." Lizzie said confidently.

"I will be sure to remember that." Nikita said seriously.

"Are we gonna to look at these pictures or what? You know, my brother isn't the only cute one in the family." Monique said.

"We know, Monique, there is Adam." Nikita said covering up her laughter.

"Ha ha very funny." Monique said as they began to look at the pictures.

****

An hour later Mick had joined the festivities and they were all laughing at the images that seemed to materialize one after another. They were all so engrossed into their looking they never noticed the two figures by the door.

"Hi everyone." Michael said softly.

Nikita looked at the freshly showered Michael and Adam by the door. She smiled as her eyes met Michael's.

"Hey." She said getting up and walking towards him. She kissed Adam, who was in his father's arms, and ruffled his hair before turning to Michael. She leaned in and brushed her lips against his. She grabbed his hand and led him into the room.

"We were just looking at pictures of you when you lived in Paris. Monique dug up all the ones when you were little." Mick said laughing at a picture of Michael with an Alfalfa hairstyle.

Nikita guffawed but quickly clamped her hand over her mouth at Michael's arched eyebrow. Her laughter turned into snorted, rib-aching laughter when Adam said his dad's hairstyle looked geeky.

"I'm glad all of you find this amusing. Too bad Monique hid all her baby pictures they are way more funnier then mine. Michael glanced at his sister.

"I hid them all. Not even you can find them Michel." She stated happily.

"We'll see. Excuse us a moment." He said standing up pulling Nikita with him. He quickly lead her to his room and closed the door leaving it slightly open. He turned to her and smiled as he walked towards her.

"So did you have fun humiliating me?" He whispered holding her hand in his. He brought it to his lips and kissed her palm.

"You were cute. I loved your pictures." She replied a sly smile on her face.

He kissed her lips. His lips were soft and demanding as his tongue licked her lower lip before slipping into her mouth earnestly. He moaned as her hands grabbed his butt and pressed him against her.

He broke free and looked in her eyes. He saw her bright blue eyes shining at him and his breath caught in his throat. His hands cupped the sides of her face and his thumbs stroked her lips lovingly.

"Did you sleep well?" He asked softly.

Nikita looked down shyly and nodded once. She was fine this morning but embarrassed now that she was with him.

"You okay? I didn't hurt you did I?" He asked concern clouding his eyes.

"No." She reassured him quickly touching his chest. "I'm just a little embarrassed."

"Why?" He asked as they sat down at the foot of his bed.

"Because I've never felt that way before. When the men used to...it never felt like that. It always hurt but last night...last night was...it was nice." She said softly looking at their intertwined hands.

"Nikita you never deserved any of the shit that happened to you. Sex isn't supposed to hurt. It's supposed to feel nice."He whispered.

"Sex and nice aren't two words that mix well with me. Sex and pain, now those are more like it." She stated looking into his eyes.

He looked at her before averting his eyes. He sighed softly trying to figure out what to say without upsetting her. He looked at her again.

"Not all of it is pain. When two people care and love one another there is no pain." He whispered moving closer to her, stroking her face. He lowered his lips to her eyes and kissed them softly. He kissed her forehead and sighed.

"There is playfulness." He kissed her nose and she chuckled.

"Shyness and selflessness." He kissed her cheek.

"Want." He brushed her lips with his nose.

"Pleasure." He kissed her lips softly.

"Passion." His lips pressed hers more intensely.

"Love." He said so low she barely heard him as he kissed her again this time caressing her mouth with his tongue. she gasped as he moaned in the back of his throat.

Nikita felt tears in her eyes and so free. She didn't feel suffocated or threatened as Michael deepened their kiss. She felt safe as he lowered her onto his bed, half his body on top of her the other half beside her.

"Hey Michael, Birkoff-whoops." Mick stated as Nikita and Michael sat up. "Sorry."

"It's okay. What about Birkoff?"

"He wanted to know if he and Carla and Gail could come over for a swim."

"That'll be fine." Michael said laying his head on Nikita's lap preventing her from leaving.

"Don't worry about the kids. I'll watch 'em for a while." Mick said leaving without another word.

Michael looked at Nikita and a hiss of air escaped his lips. Soon he was laughing and Nikita's laughter mixed with his. When they caught their breath Michael sighed as he looked at her.

"You are beautiful." He whispered.

She smiled and kissed him softly her mouth teasing his. She glanced at him and then a picture of him, Adam, and a beautiful girl she assumed was Elena.

"Tell me about Elena." she said looking at him.

"What about her?" he asked wearily.

"Everything. She is part of you and she gave you one hell of a son. I just want to know the woman who blessed you is all." She replied stroking his hair.

"You have time?" He asked.

"For you I have forever." She whispered.

He smiled and began to tell her about Elena. They stood there talking until Birkoff arrived two hours later.

************

Michael sighed as he walked in the house with Birkoff and Chuck following him. He gestured Chuck to Sit down and he moved to the kitchen to get some ice for his friend’s ankle.

“You okay?” Birkoff asked his friend.

“Yeah, I just can’t believed I stumbled and tripped over my own skate. the team is never gonna stop making fun of me for this one.” Chuck said sighing.

“Ah don’t worry about it. At least it’s only sprained ankle. Just think, you’ll be able to play in no time.” Birkoff said smiling.

“Here you go, Chuck.” Michael said tossing the bag of ice at Chuck.

“Thanks Mike. Hey I liked that shirt you got me for my birthday.” Chuck said wincing as he placed the ice on his ankle.

“It was no problem. So you guys coming here after Christmas day?” Michael asked as he stood up when he heard footsteps running towards the kitchen.

Birkoff and Chuck watched as Michael bent down and scooped up a squirming Adam and turned to the side to pick up a ranting Monique.

“Let me go Michel!” Monique said.

“Arrete.” Michael whispered as he glanced at his son and sister. “What’s the problem?”

“He tied Sydney up on a kite and was flying her near a nasty tree.” Monique said angrily.

“Adam you know how Monique feels about Sydney. Why did you do this?” Michael said as he set them down.

“She never plays with me anymore. So I played with Sydney.” Adam replied innocently.

“I don’t think so. You know better then to play with Sydney. You know the rules. Two nights without TV and no cookies.” Michael said ruffling his son’s hair.

“But Daddy...”

“Nope. No but’s, Adam, how would you feel if she did that to the teddy bear Mommy bought you?” Michael told his son gently.

Adam bowed his head down in shame. He sighed and looked at Monique. He went over to her and hugged her. He smiled apologetically.

“I’m sorry, Monique.” He whispered.

“It’s okay. Let’s go play video games. I’m James Bond this time though, since you owe me and all.” Monique said giggling as she skipped to the living room.

“Aww Monique.” Adam whined as he followed her.

Michael sat down and shook his head as he listened to Adam tried to get James Bond. He looked up and glanced and saw his two friends looking at him.

“What?” He asked at their amazed expressions.

“How did you hear them coming?” Birkoff asked.

“I have had a lot of training. Besides Elena taught me. She was better at it then I am. When we would be sleeping she would wake up before Adam even got out of bed and bring him to our room when he woke up from a nightmare.” Michael replied.

“Hey babe.” Nikita said as she walked in the kitchen. “Monique let me in.”

“Hello.” Michael stood up and hugged her before kissing her lips.

“I heard about your little tumble Chuck. You okay?” She asked sitting on Michael’s lap.

“Yeah.” Chuck said embarrassed.

“I came by to tell you that Roberta is going to take me to dinner so I gotta cancel tonight.” Nikita said.

“You still coming tomorrow though?” Michael asked.

“You kidding? In my book you and your family are ten times more important then Roberta. Besides I think my dad likes your mom.” She replied happily.

“Oh. So when are you going out with her?”

“I gotta go now. I came by to give you a kiss and let you know about today.” She smiled as his hand tickled her thigh.

“Okay. Well I’ll walk you out.” Michael said moving to stand.

“Michael you know I’ll never leave if you walk me out.” Nikita said looking at him.

“Okay, then give me a kiss.” He said smiling.

Nikita giggled as Michael kissed her fully on the lips in front of their friends. He had never done that before. She gasped as his tongue crept in her mouth. She cradled his head in her hands as she kissed him back. She pulled away and smiled at him ruffling his hair and stood up. She waved and left quickly.

“What?” Michael asked as Birkoff and Chuck looked at him before they cracked up laughing.

************

“Hi Nikki, Paul. Merry Christmas. Come on in. Dinner is almost ready. Did you bring dessert?” Madeleine asked as they went into the living room.

“Yes. I hope you like cherry pie.” He stated as he smiled at Michael.

“Cherry pie!” Adam exclaimed.

“I’m sure cherry pie is fine. Mick help me set the table.”

“Yes ma’am. Excuse me Mr. Wolfe.” Mick said smiling.

“He seems better.” Paul remarked.

“He is.” Michael replied softly.

“That’s good. So how is your vacation going, Michael.” He asked sitting down as Monique came downstairs.

“Okay. I’m happy for the chances to sleep late.” He responded.

“Mr. Wolfe!” Monique said launching her small body in his arms.

“Hey, princess. How are you?”

“Okay, ready to eat.” She responded seriously.

“Hi N’Kita.” She said going to her and hugging her.

“Hey Monique. Where’s Lizzie?” Nikita said smiling at her.

“Helping Mom and Mick with the table.” She replied smiling at her brother who was playing with Adam.

“Okay, everyone, dinner’s served.” Madeleine called from the kitchen.

“Come on let’s eat.” Michael said carrying Adam over his shoulders fireman style.

****

“Monique, come on you have to go to bed.” Michael said irritated.

“I’m not tired, Michel.” She whined.

“Yes, you are. Just go lie down and close your eyes. “ Michael said picking her up.

“Michael, I’m not sleepy. Don’t make me go to bed.” She tried weakly.

“Monique, if you don’t go to sleep, Santa won’t come here. Is that fair to Adam, Lizzie, Maman and me? Just go to sleep and tomorrow will come quickly.” He rationalized.

“Okay. I’ll try goodnight, Michel.” She said kissing her brother.

“Bon nuit.” He said kissing her head.

He tucked her in and then checked on Lizzie and smiled as she laughed in her sleep. Then he went to Adam’s room and pulled the cover’s around him. He smiled as he kissed his son’s cheek. He left quietly and bumped into Nikita in his way downstairs.

“Hi.” She whispered smiling.

“Bonjour.” He whispered as he smiled.

“So are you gonna ignore me all night?” She asked softly.

“I wasn’t ignoring you. I was trying to wear out Adam so I could have some time with you.” He said caressing her cheek. He moved closer to her and brushed his lips against hers softly.

“I could never ignore you.” He whispered as he pulled her close and kissed her hard. They leaned against the door from of his bedroom kissing intensely. He moaned as her fingers scratched his back lightly.

They broke apart breathing fast, their foreheads touching softly. Nikita smiled at Michael’s smiling face, his lips swollen from her kisses. One of his hands massaged her neck softly while the other tickled her lower back.

“We better go downstairs before this gets out of hand.” Michael whispered as he nuzzled her neck.

“Okay.” She whispered taking his hand and kissing his palm.

“C’mon.”

“Michael. Can you give me my gift now?” She asked quietly not moving when he started for the stairs.

“Now?” He asked. He sighed when she nodded. “Okay. It’s in my room.”

They walked in the room and Nikita sat on the bed waiting for her gift.

****

“They have been up there awfully long. What do you think they are doing?” Paul asked looking at the ceiling.

“Don’t know.” Madeleine replied looking into Paul’s worried eyes.

“Paul, don’t worry. They aren’t doing anything. Trust me.” Madeleine said softly.

“How do you know.” He asked.

“Michael would have told me. I know for a fact Michael and her aren’t ready.” She informed him.

“Are you sure?”

“Positive. Now here you go.” Madeleine said giving him a wrapped box.

“Madeleine. You didn’t have to.” He protested.

“I wanted to,” she said as she smiled.

“Well thank you. And this is for you.” he said softly.

They opened their presents and smiled at each other.

“Thank you.” Madeleine smiled at him as she pulled out her fragranced lotion and body wash.

“No problem. Nikki helped me pick it out. Thank you for this.” He said pulling out his shirt. “It’s very nice.”

“Adam helped me pick that out.” She said smiling. She held up her glass and cleared her throat.

“Merry Christmas, Paul.”

“Merry Christmas, Madeleine,” he said as they drank their wine.

****

“It’s not much, Nikita.” He said as he handed her a little box.

“It’s the thought that counts, Michael.” She replied smiling.

She opened the wrapping and looked at the velvet box. She looked at Michael before she opened the box. Her breath caught as she looked inside the box. She looked at Michael again and smiled softly.

“Michael, it’s too much. you didn’t have to do this.” She said taking his hand.

“I wanted to. Put it on.” He said taking it out and holding out for her finger.

He slipped the Claddagh ring onto her ring finger. He looked at her and kissed her finger as he smiled. He held her hand as she looked at the ring.

“Here’s yours.” She said handing him her gift with her free hand.

Michael opened the present and glanced at the long box. He opened it and his breath caught as he looked at the chain inside. At the end of the chain was a flat charm with Adam’s name and birth date. He looked at her his eyes bright.

“Thank you Nikita.” He whispered as he put it on.

“I saw it and thought of you.” She said and fingered the charm as it lay at the base of his neck.

She watched as he ducked his head in embarrassment. She leaned her head towards his and kissed him tenderly. She sighed as she felt him relax. Her hands wrapped around his head and stroked his hair. She moved closer to him seeking his warmth.

Michael held her close as they kissed. He broke free and sighed standing up quickly. He ran a hand through his hair and sighed again.

“We better go downstairs.” He said taking his hand and kissed her cheek as he led her downstairs. His hand rubbing at her ring.

************

Nikita smiled as Madeleine talked about Paris. She leaned against Michael’s shoulder as he played with the ring on her finger. “So Michael do you keep in touch with Adam’s grandparents?” Paul asked as Madeleine went to check on the children.

“Yes, I do. I am still very close with Salla and Vashdi.” Michael said softly.

“That’s good. So did you enjoy your gift?” Paul asked him.

“Yessir, I loved it.” Michael replied smiling happily.

“Good. So what did you get Nikki?” He asked his daughter.

“This.” Nikita replied showing her father her ring.

“Wow, it’s pretty. It’s Irish, right?” Paul asked.

“Yup.” Nikita replied yawning.

“Dad, Michael’s gonna walk me home. I’m beat.” Nikita said hugging her father.

“Okay, sweetie, sleep well.” Paul told his daughter.

“Goodnight Mrs. S., see you tomorrow.” Nikita said hugging a returning Madeleine.

“Night Nikki.” Madeleine replied hugging her.

“I’ll be back in a bit.” Michael said hugging his mother before walking out.

Nikita sighed as Michael shut the door and grabbed her hand. They walked down the street in silence until Nikita broke it.

“I am so glad to be out of there. Is it just me or was I the only one getting a weird vibe off of our parents?” Nikita asked.

“It wasn’t only you.” Michael replied moving so he could out his arm around her waist as they walked.

“I am happy you like your gift. I wasn’t sure if you would.” He said softly kissing her hair.

“Don’t be silly. I love it.” She said shoving him slightly with her hips as they walked.

Michael smiled as they walked up the steps to her front porch. he took her keys from her and opened the door to let her in. Nikita smiled as she walked by him and brushed her fingers over his cheek before grabbing his hand and ushering him in.

He sat on the couch as she went to get something to drink. He leaned his head back on the edge of the couch, closed his eyes and drifted into a light sleep. He opened one eye slightly when he felt Nikita kiss his nose.

He nuzzled her lips with his nose before kissing her gently. His tongue played with her lips before claiming her mouth. He felt her fingers wrap around his hair. He moved one of his hands to her hips as the other one caressed her face. He moved his mouth to her neck and lightly bit the sensitive skin before soothing it with gentle kisses. He looked at her when he heard her gasp and frowned when he saw tears in her eyes.

“What is it? What’ s wrong?” He asked concerned as he rubbed her brow with his finger tips.

She looked away from him slightly embarrassed and bit her lower lip. She rested her head on his shoulder and the forward motion of her body made her feel the fullness of him.

“We don’t have to do anything. I’m okay with just kissing.” Michael ran off quickly at her downward glance to the bulge rapidly forming under his dress pants.

“Shhh. It’s not that silly. I’m embarrassed because I don’t want to stop. I want you to touch me Michael.” She whispered in his ear before licking it.

************

Michael needed no further urging. He stroked her hair from her face looked in her eyes once more for permission. He touched her breasts through the fabric of her blouse as he kissed her hungrily.

She pulled back and looked into his eyes before she began taking off the deep green dress shirt he wore. She threw the shirt to the floor and pulled the white tank top over his head. Her breath caught at the site of him. She had seen him in the pool but this was so much better. her hands stroked his muscled pecs lightly. Her hand wandered to his abs and she ran her fingernails lightly across the ridges. When she got to his navel she ran light circles around it tickling him lightly.

Michael felt his muscles flinch as her hands worked their magic on his body. He groaned and kissed her his hands reaching for the tails of her blouse pulling away from her lips long enough to remove her blouse. He looked at her breasts encased in a lacy bra. His breath caught in his throat as he touched the exposed tops of her breasts with trembling reverent fingertips.

“You are beautiful.” He told her looking into her eyes smiling. He kissed her cheek and looked into her eyes again seeking permission with a smile he kissed her neck as he swiftly removed her bra.

Michael looked at her chest before bending his head to kiss one breast gently. His tongue reached out for her taut nipple. As he licked and nibbled her nub she moaned pleasure. He felt her lay her head on his as he worshiped her. He moaned as he moved to the valley in between her breasts, his mouth hot and demanding. When he got to the next mound his ministrations were still gentle but laced with a hungry passion. He felt Nikita plant kisses on his head and move to his neck suckling him softly.

Nikita was in a haze of bliss. Michael was kissing her in ways she only dreamed of and he was so damn hot with his shirt off. She had all these new sensations running through her but she was at a loss at how to express them. All she knew was Michael she couldn’t wait for him to touch all of her and she couldn’t wait to touch him. She moaned as his mouth tugged at her nipple with his teeth. It was amazing he knew what to do without her having to tell him.

“Michael,” she whispered as he kissed her neck and worked his way back up to her mouth. Before she knew it he was on top of her kissing her hungrily.

A wave of courage flashed through Nikita and she moved her hand to Michael’s pants and rubbed him firmly through the fabric. She smiled against his neck as she felt him tense up and lean into her hand with a moan. He kissed her neck and moved back up to look into her eyes. She saw his body, which was moving against her hand, stop as he looked at her.

“What?” She asked breathless.

“You are beautiful.” He whispered lowering to kiss her again.

They lost themselves in each other. Mouths mated , tongues clashed, teeth nibbled, and hands wandered as Nikita and Michael held each other. Suddenly everything faded as if an ice cold bucket of water had been thrown on them in the form of Roberta Wirth.

************

“Hello? Paul, Nikita, are you guys here?” Roberta’s voice rang out hesitantly.

“Son of a -” Nikita cried hastily as she clambered off of Michael looking around for her blouse. She looked up and saw Roberta’s shadow coming closer. Her eyes lit on a mound of green fabric. She pulled it over her body just as Roberta entered the living room.

“Nikita, there you are.” Roberta exclaimed as she glanced at Nikita. Her face was flushed and her shirt was too big on her. She was about to say something when she caught site of the quiet boy that had been with Nikita the night she had stopped by.

“Oops, I’m sorry. I knocked but no one answered.” She explained.

“So you just walked in?” Nikita stated.

“The door was open, I thought someone was here but no one answered. I figured you were all out back or something. I wanted to give you something.” Roberta stated.

Nikita looked at the box that was handed to her. She looked to Roberta and then to Michael who sat there in a dignified manner, half naked. She sighed as her gaze went back to her mother and her heart hardened. She couldn’t believe this.

“You are giving me a gift? Look, I know you are trying to make up for all the crap that happened when I was small but you can’t. The one thing I asked for is time and you didn’t even give that to me. This gift won’t ever replace what was taken from me or the pain I felt all these years thinking my own mother never loved me.” Nikita said calmly and coldly.

“Nikita, I’m sorry. I know nothing I ever do-”

“Please don’t patronize me. Just leave.” Nikita said here eyes cold and hard.

“Nikita, please, I’m trying to make things right.” Roberta said softly tears raging down her face.

“Get out.” Nikita stated firmly.

Roberta sighed and looked at her daughter then at the boy on the couch. He was just sitting there looking at Nikita with and odd expression on his face. She sniffed and nodded her head wiping her tears away. She squared her shoulders and smiled softly at her daughter.

“Merry Christmas Nikita, young man. Good night.” She said before she turned on her heel and walked out of the house.

Nikita tossed the box on the table and sighed softly. She closed her eyes trying to gain her control back. She frowned as she felt eyes sear into her.

“What?” she asked him.

“I’m not taking her side but umm...she was trying to make things better for you.” He said looking at her.

“Making things better? Michael she was a worthless drunk who let her boyfriends play with her daughter.” Nikita said her voice raising slightly.

“Was being the operative word there, Kita.” He countered rationally.

“So I’m supposed to be thankful? The only thing she ever gave me was an existence of pain and fear. How the hell is she supposed to make up for that?” Nikita said pacing.

“She’s not trying to make up but rather let it go.” He replied softly.

“I’ll let it go when she gives me back everything she allowed taken from me. If she take away this fear I have of men then we’ll talk.” Nikita said.

“She can never give that back and it’s unfair to her, she has changed, anybody can see that. Most importantly though, it’s unfair to you. Kita, all this anger and hurt it’s going to make you crazy.” He told her.

“You’re one to talk about anger and hurt. You won’t even talk to me about Paris, your father, or why you left. Don’t give me advice if you are going to be a hypocrite, Michael.” Nikita shot out.

“A hypocrite? Now I’m a hypocrite? Things happened that’s why we moved. You want to know about anger? How about the woman that I loved , that gave me my son, died because of me? That I had to go through exactly what Roberta went through because her parents hated me so much. Is that what you want to hear?” Michael said looking at her as he rose angrily.

“No it isn’t and I will tell you why. Yes, you were abused. I’m am so sorry that happened to you. I wish I could take it all away but I can’t and neither can you. However, being angry at her isn’t going to make it go away. It is just going to get worse. Even if you never want to see her again at least forgive her and move on. I know these are cruel words but you need to get over it Kita.” He said his voice tinted with emotion.

Nikita’s eyes flashed a dark blue at his words. She was so upset at everything. Now he was telling her stuff that hurt and made her more pissed off. She squinted her eyes angrily and said the words before she even thought about it. As soon as they were out she wished she never said them.

“You know, right now, you are just like all the other guys who have had there way with me.” she said angrily.

Michael felt like someone punched him in the chest. He felt his face flush and his chest heave with emotion. He knew his eyes were cold, hard, and enraged but he didn’t care. He felt as if part of him died at her words.

“Fine. That’s the way you are going to be. I’m going home before I say something I am never going to be able to take back. Goodnight, Nikita.” He said hoarsely as he grabbed his tank top and left without another word.

************

Michael walked into his house and shut the door with a loud slam. He felt the house vibrate slightly at the force of the door shut. He was so upset he didn’t even register it. He walked into the living room and glanced at Paul and his mother sitting on the couch, who were regarding him in surprise.

“Hi. I’m going to bed. Goodnight.” He said heading to the stairs quietly his voice lined with steel.

Madeleine glanced at Paul who had her hand in his. He returned her glance with a raised eyebrow and a ‘this is interesting’ look.

They turned to Michael as he turned around slightly. They saw him struggle with a slew of emotions. His eyes went from indifference, to anger, and finally to resignation. He sighed and ran a shaky hand through his hair.

“Mr. Wolfe, please check on Nikita. She was pretty upset when I left.” He whispered hoarsely, his eyes turning angry once again. Before Paul could say anything Michael ran upstairs quietly.

“Nikita? That sounds serious. I better go. Madeleine, thank you for tonight, it was wonderful.” He said stroking her cheek.

“Yes, it was. Goodnight Paul.” She said smiling.

“Goodnight.” He replied kissing her lips softly before getting up and leaving.

She smiled as the door shut. After a few minutes she got up and headed towards the stairs to check on her son. She found him sitting on his windowsill looking at a picture of Elena.

He turned to look at her when he heard her footsteps in his room. He looked back at the picture and sighed. She noticed he wasn’t wearing his shirt only the undershirt.

“What happened?” She asked her heart hammering with worry.

“You know, my relationship with Elena was rough. We had some rough moments. She was so demanding sometimes and so sweet others. But when we were together everything from the outside totally disappeared. Charles’ beatings, your pain, my pain, Monique’s sadness.” He explained softly.

“When we were holding each other after making love everything made sense and I was really happy. Then when Adam was born my life had a purpose. When Elena died, I thought everything was gray. Then Nikita came into my life and I thought things would be the same.” Michael’s voice trailed off. He ran a shaky finger over Elena’s face.

“I know she isn’t Elena and I would never ask her to be. I just... I don’t know what to think.” He said frustrated.

“I’m crazy about Nikita and every time we take a step forward something comes along and knocks us back two steps. When that happens she gets all defensive and takes it out on me.” Michael shook his head his eyes blank and guarded while he put the picture back and stared out the window.

“Michael, she has been through a lot. She is just now dealing with it.” Madeleine said softly.

“She isn’t the only one.” His accent thickened with emotion as his eyes danced around looking at the sky.

“True but you have had time to deal with your issues.”

She almost laughed at her son’s expression. It was a look of ‘That’s the biggest load of bullshit I’ve ever heard of.’ She looked away to compose herself. Teenagers she thought to herself.

“Maman, I’m tired.” He told her standing up and stripped to his boxers. He lay on the bed and closed his eyes effectively stopping the conversation.

“Bonne nuit, Michel.” She said kissing his cheek. Shaking her head as she shut the door. He got that technique from Leon. He would always stop their uncomfortable conversations by going to bed. Just great, my son developed the most annoying thing from him, she thought to herself smiling.

****

Paul got home and called Nikita softly. It was dark in the house and he wasn’t sure if she was still awake. He saw a package from Roberta to his daughter and knew that was probably why Michael was upset. They got into an argument.

He went upstairs and looked in her room. She was on her stomach. He couldn’t see her face and debated on waking her to see if she was okay. He sighed as he went and kissed her head her face buried in her pillow. He would talk to her tomorrow.

Nikita waited for her father to leave and tears flowed from her eyes. She felt so bad and made Michael so upset. Her heart ached at the way his face looked when she had told him those horrible things. She shut her eyes tightly as she prayed he would forgive her as sobs wracked her body. They continued to do so until exhaustion claimed her.

************

Michael smiled as his son buried his legs in the sand. They were at the beach with Mick, Birkoff, Chuck, and Gray. They had been surfing and were now getting ready to start a bonfire. It had been two days since he and Nikita had had their fight. They had been effectively avoiding each other.

“I can’t believe we are seniors this year. It is too weird.” Birkoff said eating his sandwich.

“I know man. It seems like yesterday we were snot-nosed ninth graders, getting lost in the hallway.” Mick replied.

Chuck giggled as he watched Adam pile on the sand. A sudden memory came to mind.

“Remember when Mick got picked on by those punks and they stuck his head in the toilet and flushed giving him a whirly?” Chuck stated giggling.

“Yeah and then next year he grew a few inches and shaved his head. He also beat up those guys, right?” Gray asked.

“Mhmm with a little help.” Birkoff replied smiling.

“Okay now we lived the most embarrassing moment of my life let’s talk about something a lot less personal, like sports or something.” Mick said his cheeks flushing.

Michael smiled as he went over to Adam. He smiled as his son looked at him. He grabbed Adam by the armpits and hoisted him out of the sand.

“Okay, little crab, time to go wash up.” He said as Adam giggled.

He went to the ocean and proceeded to wash the sand out of his son’s body. A few minutes later he returned with a clean Adam. They sat down and Michael handed him a sandwich and a drink. Michael looked into the fire they had started while he was away, his thoughts raging through his head, all of them of Nikita.

****

“Come on Nikki. Which movie do you wanna see?” Carla asked.

“I don’t know whatever.” Nikita replied half-heartedly.

“How about uhm...Highlander? There is a butt and some chest.” Carla said.

“Nope, it’s good but to depressing.” She replied.

“I know the perfect one.” Gail said running off for a second before returning with Julie in tow.

“Here.” She said holding out two videos.

“You gotta be kidding.” Carla guffawed.

“Nope. Our buddy Nikki here needs some mindless humor. What better movies then these.” Gail said.

“Well, Nikki, it looks like Scary Movie and Bring It On wins the polls.” Carla said smiling.

“That’s fine as long as you get popcorn and chocolate candy.” She replied her voice a thousand miles away.

Carla looked at her friend with sadness. Ever since her and Michael’s argument two days ago she had been acting weird. Like she lost her best friend or something. It had taken a lot of talking to get her to watch a movie tonight. She hoped that whatever was going on would resolve itself soon, Nikki needed to be happy.

************

Michael stretched slowly as he woke up. He glanced at the bed across his room and saw Birkoff still asleep. He glanced at his clock and moaned as he saw the time. Damned dreams always wake him up at all these weird hours. He buried his face in the pillow determined to go back to sleep. He drifted into dark oblivion with a sigh.

Two hours later he heard a thud and a muffled curse. He opened his eye and saw Birkoff sitting on the bed examining his toe. Michael smiled at his friend as he cursed again softly.

“You’d think with all the times you have stayed here you wouldn’t stub your toe on the corner.” He informed his injured friend.

“Yeah well when you are half asleep, you aren’t really paying attention to much. Unless you are a freak which you are cause you wake up so damn alert. Which by the way you need to teach me.” Birkoff’s tone went from to sarcastic to inquisitive.

“Someday my friend, someday.” Michael replied with a smile.

“How’d you sleep?” Birkoff asked.

“Like hell. You?” He asked as he got up.

“Like a baby. So whatcha doing today?” Birkoff asked pulling on his pants over his boxers then dry his hair with a towel.

“Nothing much. You took a shower. How long have you been up?” Michael asked grabbing his towel.

“About twenty minutes. Well, I’m going to have to leave soon. Me and my mother are going to see a man about a new car.” He told Michael as his friend closed the door and the shower started running.

Birkoff put on his shirt and some cologne. By the time he finished tying his shoes Michael stepped out of the shower in a pair of khaki cargo pants.

“I’ll see you later, Michael. I gotta head out, my mom is starting to page me.” Birkoff said as Michael pulled on his blue shirt. He went over and shook his hand before leaving.

Michael went downstairs and was eating breakfast when Monique came downstairs. She smiled as she grabbed her cup from the fridge and sat next to her brother.

“Where is everyone?” Michael asked between his bites of eggs.

“Maman is working. Mick took Lizzie and Adam to the park. I slept late so I didn’t want to go.” Monique said.

“How about we go for a walk?” Michael whispered mischievously.

“Okay.” Monique said giggling. “You’ll put me on your shoulders?”

“Oui. And we will got the canyon after our walk huh?” Michael said rising to put his plate in the sink.

“Cool” Monique whooped.

“Viens, let’s go.” Michael said taking her hand as they walked outside.

They walked for a while. Michael helped Monique climb a tree. She jumped from the limb to his arms and hugged him when he caught her.

“You always catch me, Michel. Je t’aime.” She said happily.

“I love you too. Why don’t we go get the car and go to the canyon.” He said hugging her back.

“Okay.” She said as he put her down and she grabbed his hand.

They started to walk home they were in a deep conversation about Sesame Street when they collided with someone lost in thought. Monique looked up and saw Nikita staring at Michael her eyes were shiny. When she looked at her brother his face was blank like when Charles used to hit him.